The Department of Environment, Food and Agriculture has entered into a trial partnership with Braddan Parish Commissioners over Millennium Oak Wood and Port Soderick Glen.
The partnership has come about at the local authority’s suggestion and will mean the popular amenities are overseen by Braddan’s Community Warden, Paul Parker.
Working with the Department, the authority hopes to improve footpaths and add picnic and seating areas in the Millennium Oak Wood, encouraging usage and improving users’ experience.
The authority hopes it can work with companies and charities to provide a more enjoyable open space for all.
Richard Ronan, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, said:
‘Our Landscape, Our Legacy, the Department’s recently published strategy for amenity and land, emphasises the importance of promoting access to and managing the Island’s green spaces.
‘I am pleased to be entering into this partnership and look forward to the enhancements to the Millennium Oak Wood.
‘At a time when we must make the most of public money, such partnerships are a pragmatic way to ensure services are delivered.’
The trial will, if successful, become a long term agreement, the Minister added.
Andrew Jessopp, Chairman of Braddan Commissioners, said:
‘I am delighted the Commissioners have forged another valuable partnership with the Government.
‘We hope this arrangement with DEFA will lead to closer working with them on other matters of common interest.
‘I also encourage the people using these sites to do so responsibly so everyone can enjoy them as intended.’
*photo showing, from left, Jason Bolt, Senior Forestry and Amenity Officer with DEFA, Andrew Jessopp, Chairman of Braddan Parish Commissioners, and Richard Ronan, Minister for Environment, Food and Agriculture, at the Millennium Oak Wood.